The NIST model for role-based access control: towards a unified standard

This paper describes a unified model for role-based access control (RBAC). RBAC is a proven technology for large-scale authorization. However, lack of a standard model results in uncertainty and confusion about its utility and meaning. The NIST model seeks to resolve this situation by unifying ideas from prior RBAC models, commercial products and research prototypes. It is intended to serve as a foundation for developing future standards. RBAC is a rich and open-ended technology which is evolving as users, researchers and vendors gain experience with it. The NIST model focuses on those aspects of RBAC for which consensus is available. It is organized into four levels of increasing functional capabilities called flat RBAC, hierarchical RBAC, constrained RBAC and symmetric RBAC. These levels are cumulative and each adds exactly one new requirement. An alternate approach comprising flat and hierarchical RBAC in an ordered sequence and two unordered features—constraints and symmetry—is also presented. The paper furthermore identifies important attributes of RBAC not included in the NIST model. Some are not suitable for inclusion in a consensus document. Others require further work and agreement before standardization is feasible.